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Choy Oyu:

Team:  John Griber, Willie Benegas, Hilaree O’neil

Every climber has the interest to test themselves over 8000m.   I had avoided it until now – seeking the peace and solitude of smaller peaks.  We finally succumbed to the call to be admitted to “the club” of those that have skied from 8000m and headed to choy oyu in the fall of 2005.   For Willie, 5 times on summit of Everest, and Hilaree, my superhuman climbing partner, it seemed to be a walk in the park.   For me, well, I am just trying to keep the black tea and ramen noodles in my stomache.  Unaccustomed to the crowds and the challenge of the altitude have me questioning whether I want to be in “the club” daily.  Until, of course we find ourselves skiing off the summit.  Like childbirth (or so I have heard) one quickly forgets the pain for the thrill of having pulled it off.  Fall 2007 we plan to head with our skis to Shishapangma.